Palestinian Authority / Israel (Country threat levels – 5 / 4):

On 12 May 2009 Pope Benedict XVI visited the Western Wall and the Dome of the Rock in Jerusalem. There have been reports of scattered protests, though none appear to have been particularly disruptive. Israeli security forces continue to close streets in areas near the locations the pope is visiting. The pope will arrive in Bethlehem at 0930 local time for a meeting with Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas. He will then celebrate mass at Manger Square and will visit the Grotto of the Nativity, the Caritas Baby Hospital and the Aida Refugee Camp before attending a departure ceremony at the presidential palace at 1730 local time.